Book Review: Romeo and Juliet [Graphic Novel]

By Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616 (Adapted by Crystal Silvermoon) 

4 Stars 

I read Shakespeare’s original Romeo and Juliet last year in English class, but this manga version hit me in the soul. The illustrations made the emotions stand out in a way words alone sometimes can’t, and that’s something I really admired. I felt the story not just through the text but even more through the images.  

The book is about two young people caught between love and family conflict. Even though the story was first written hundreds of years ago, it still feels real and meaningful today. What touched me most were the themes. Love is at the centre, but it’s not only about romance; it’s also about loyalty, sacrifice, and how family expectations can affect personal choices. Reading it in this format made me think about how young couples still face these struggles today. Many relationships fall apart because of family opinions, and it shows how outside pressure can weigh heavily on love. At the same time, the characters were young and made mistakes, which made them relatable.  

The artwork made the emotions jump off the page. I felt more connected to the characters here than when I read the play. The only thing I wished for was a bit more detail in certain scenes since some parts felt rushed. But even with that, the story captured the heart of Romeo and Juliet. Overall, this version is a touching way to experience the play. It’s emotional, meaningful, and reminds us why the story has lasted for so many years. 

Reviewed by Sandrine 

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